Bali Cargo Shippers Threatened by Drop in Exports

30% Decline in Exports Forcing Bali Cargo Agents to Curtail or Close Operations

(8/26/2011) Bisnis.com warns that a number of cargo companies in Bali are in danger of closure due to a sudden decline in exports estimated at 30%.

The chairman of the IATA Cargo Agent Club Bali (ICAC-Bali), Handy Saputra, said the downturn in exports has been a heavy blow for cargo agents. “If this condition remains unchanged through the end of the year, it is not impossible that many cargo companies will close,” warned Handy.

Handy linked the current woes of the cargo business to the effects of the global economic downturn and the earthquake-tsunami tragedy in Japan.

According to the ICAC-Bali chairman, many cargo agents in Bali have reduced their payrolls in order to survive while some have closed altogether.

While there are many cargo agents in Bali, only 21 have IATA (International Air Transport Association) certification, which qualifies them for membership in the ICAC-Bali. The organization continuously strives to improve the skills and knowledge of its membership by conducting regular training programs and workshops.